How to drive the paved D89 Road in the Pyrenees?
France, europe
16.7 km
2,241 m
moderate
Year-round
# D89: A Thrilling Pyrenean Adventure
Ready for a mountain road that'll get your adrenaline pumping? D89 winds through the stunning Pyrénées-Orientales in southern France, right near the Spanish border. This scenic gem takes you all the way up to Puigmal, and trust me, the views are absolutely worth it.
Starting from Sainte-Léocadie, this 16.7 km route climbs 929 meters to a parking area sitting pretty at 2,241 meters above sea level. The average gradient of 5.56% might sound manageable on paper, but the winding bends and heart-stopping drop-offs mean you'll definitely want to stay focused behind the wheel. The pavement isn't perfect—some sections are a bit rough around the edges—and things get genuinely tight in places where two cars can barely squeeze past each other.
Set high in the Pyrenees, D89 delivers that dramatic mountain scenery you dream about, with sweeping vistas that'll make you want to pull over at every hairpin turn. Just keep in mind this road is typically locked down by snow and ice during winter, so plan your visit for warmer months when conditions are more forgiving. Bundle up though—even in summer, the cold and wind at elevation can catch you off guard.
This isn't a leisurely Sunday drive, but if you've got solid driving skills and a taste for spectacular alpine scenery, D89 is an unforgettable experience.
Where is it?
How to drive the paved D89 Road in the Pyrenees? is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 45.4803, 2.3355
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 16.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,241 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 45.4803, 2.3355
Related Roads in europe
hardIs D29 Road in Occitanie Paved?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the south of France, Occitanie region, on the D29. This isn't just any drive—it's a total adventure! The road is paved, sure, but hold on tight because it's seriously challenging. Think super narrow sections that two normal-sized cars *definitely* can't pass at the same time. Plus, there are unlit tunnels adding to the drama, and single-track stretches with overhanging rocks just waiting to test your nerves (and your paint job!). Seriously, if you're not comfy reversing on skinny roads, maybe skip this one. This road climbs up to some seriously impressive mountain passes. It's usually open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather because rockslides are a real risk, and early snow can shut things down quick. But, oh man, the scenery! It's absolutely gorgeous, making those nail-biting moments totally worth it.
hardAskja Road in Iceland is one of Earth's most scenic trips
🇮🇸 Iceland
# Askja Road: Iceland's Ultimate Highland Adventure Ready for one of Iceland's wildest rides? Askja Road is a 79km (49-mile) dirt track cutting through the remote central highlands of northeast Iceland, connecting Route 1 to Route 910. This isn't your typical Sunday drive—it's a serious adventure that demands respect. First things first: you absolutely need a rugged 4x4 vehicle with solid clearance, and honestly, don't even think about going solo. Travel with at least one other car. The track itself is rough and unforgiving, with multiple river crossings over the Grafarlandsá and Lindá that can be downright sketchy—even impassable for smaller jeeps. The Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue specifically warns against attempting the Lindaá crossing in compact vehicles like a Suzuki Jimny or Toyota RAV4. Only well-equipped, larger jeeps should attempt it. ## The Views That Make It Worth It Despite the challenges, the lunar-like landscape is absolutely stunning. The first 60km (37 miles) hugs the western side of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, offering sweeping, otherworldly vistas. About 40km in, you'll hit the Grafarlandaá ford—your first major water crossing. Push another 20km and you'll discover Herðubreiðarlindir, a gorgeous highland oasis bursting with moss, wildflowers, and natural springs. The iconic table mountain Herðubreið towers 6km to the west, creating an unforgettable backdrop. History buffs will love the 5-minute walk to the remains of a tiny underground shelter where Iceland's most infamous outlaw, Fjalla-Eyvindur, supposedly survived the brutal winter of 1774-75 eating dried horsemeat and roots. Nearby, you can also detour through Hrossaborg, a 10,000-year-old crater with a collapsed wall creating a natural amphitheater. Herðubreiðarlindir also serves as the starting point for the legendary Öskjuvegurinn, a grueling 5-day trek across some of Iceland's harshest terrain, reaching Askja's Drekagil hut by day two. ## Practical Essentials The road only opens during summer months (late June through early September), and conditions can vary dramatically. Before you go, call 1777 or check www.road.is to confirm the route is passable. **River crossing tips:** These aren't to be taken lightly. Never cross alone or during heavy rain. Engage 4x4 before entering, drive slowly, and avoid switching gears mid-river. Glacial rivers have less flow in the mornings—afternoons can be treacherous as melting increases water volume. If it looks too dangerous to wade through, don't drive through it. Cross diagonally with the current when possible. And remember: rental car insurance doesn't cover water damage. **Don't forget:** Fill up on petrol before entering the highlands—there are no stations out there. Cell service is spotty, but you can call 112 (Iceland's emergency number) even without a signal. Tell someone your travel plans. Weather changes rapidly, so pack for anything. This route sees minimal traffic, so expect to be truly isolated. **The bottom line:** This isn't a road for everyone, but for experienced 4x4 drivers ready for a genuine challenge, Askja Road delivers one of Iceland's most unforgettable highland experiences. Just respect it, prepare thoroughly, and never underestimate those river crossings.
hard1. Access to Cutting-Edge Terrain Geometry
🇬🇧 England
Okay, picture this: you're hitting up Hardknott Pass in the Lake District, and it's not for the faint of heart! This beast is a little over 2 miles long, but packs a serious punch with some ridiculously steep sections. We're talking a heart-pounding climb to over 1200 feet, so your car (and your nerves) are definitely going to feel it. Now, about those hazards... hairpin turns don't even begin to describe what you're in for! Visibility can be a real issue, especially if the weather turns (and let's be honest, it probably will). But hey, if you can keep your eyes on the road, the views are totally worth the white knuckles. Think panoramic landscapes and that classic Lake District vibe. Just maybe take a deep breath before you start, and try to enjoy the ride!
hardGroßglockner-Hochalpenstraße
🇦🇹 Austria
Austria's mountain roads are calling, and you NEED to answer! Picture this: hairpin turns clinging to cliffs, majestic peaks piercing the sky, and views that'll make your jaw drop. This country is a driver's dream, offering an unforgettable alpine adventure. Get ready to ascend beyond the ordinary on roads like the Großglockner-Hochalpenstraße (open May-Oct, maxes out at a breathtaking 2,504m with gradients up to 12%) slicing through Salzburg and Carinthia. For year-round thrills, hit the road that summits at 1,732m with gradients of 10%. Alternatively, there's the road topping 1,628m, another open all year! Or perhaps the one climbing to 2,042m (open May-Oct). The Goldeck Panorama Road (open May-Oct, peaks at 1,895m) is another must. Don't miss the Silvretta Hochalpenstraße (open June-Oct, hitting 2,032m), or the Kaunertal Glacier Road (open year-round, soaring to 2,750m). Then there’s the Timmelsjoch Alpine Road (open June-Oct, reaching 2,479m), Schlegeis Alpenstraße (open May-Oct, topping out at 1,806m) followed by the other year round route reaching 1,920m. The Pustertal High Alpine Road, open year-round, will get you up to 1,441m while the Zillertaler Höhenstraße (open May-Oct) delivers views from 2,020m. Expect winding paths, and pure alpine bliss! These routes offer an incredible chance to experience Austria's beauty from a whole new perspective. Just remember to keep your eyes on the road – those views are distracting!